Any person or organization preparing and serving food to the public at a temporary food event in Virginia must have a Temporary Food Establishment Permit from the local health department in which the event is held no later than 10 business days prior to an event. To receive a Food Establishment Permit, complete the Temporary Food Establishment Permit Application and submit it to your local health department. A $40 fee may need to be submitted with your application. An Environmental Health Specialist will review your application and contact you. It is recommended that temporary food vendors and their employees demonstrate knowledge in food safety through training classes such as certified manager training and basic food handler training.

Food safety training is extremely important in ensuring food establishments offer the safest food possible to the public and to prevent the spread of foodborne illness. A foodborne illness is a sickness caused by the consumption of improperly prepared or handled food. Please click here to learn more about food borne illnesses. The Chickahominy Health District strongly recommends food establishment owners and employees at all levels receive food safety training. A variety of food safety classes are available in your community. To find a food safety class in the Richmond Metropolitan area or for more information, please visit http://www.servsafe.com/home or contact your local health department.